An Intentional Wedding Design That’s All in the Details at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

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August 19, 2024

The Planning

Design / Vibe / Vision

At this romantic wedding, the groom's name contains the meaning of "Kun," which means a mythical giant fish from Chinese mythology, often associated with transformation and potential, as it is said to transform into a giant bird, Peng. While the bride’s name contains the meaning of “Xi”, which typically refers to a plant known as madder, scientifically named Rubia cordifolia. Therefore, our design and color choices are themed around the "Kun fish" and the "Rubia cordifolia". The design of the wedding invitations also closely revolves around this theme. The invitation suite includes beautifully crafted artwork, such as a watercolor painting of the wedding venue. Additionally, there's an intricate illustration of what appears to be the mythical "Kun fish" and "Rubia cordifolia", tying in personal and thematic elements that is significant to the couple. At the ceremony site, there are even two giant licorice-made "Kun fish" soaring through the air, adding a mysterious and unique romantic atmosphere to the entire scene. In the design of the dinner, the floral arrangement is stunningly beautiful. In terms of table setting, we meticulously layered three different-sized themed dinner plates, each harmonizing with the overall color scheme. To surprise the guests further, we designed their place cards in the shape of delicate stamens, cleverly placed at the center of the floral dinner plates, highlighting individuality while blending seamlessly with the overall ambiance. The table number cards are beautifully designed with a warm, subtle watercolor background that blends soft shades of peach and pink. The cards feature elegant, artistic drawings of what to be distinctive landmarks and architectural features, representing specific places meaningful to the couple. Displayed alongside elegant floral arrangements and under soft, ambient lighting, these table number cards add a personal touch to the wedding, suggesting that each table is themed or named according to different places significant to the couple’s story. This detail adds an extra layer of intimacy and personalization to the wedding experience. The custom wedding logo is omnipresent, appearing on the invitations, the bar, and even on the dance floor at the wedding. The seating chart board features a stylish and creative setup for a wedding. The board itself is a large, rustic wooden panel with the couple's names, elegantly scripted across the top, adding a personalized and elegant touch. Arrayed on the board are colorful envelopes in a variety of warm tones including orange, purple, yellow, and beige. Each envelope is neatly positioned in rows and serves as an individual family seating card for the guests. The use of different colors for the envelopes not only makes the board visually appealing but also adds a fun and vibrant element to the wedding's décor. The creatively designed wedding card box, styled to resemble a classic mailbox, was elegantly scripted in gold cursive. The mailbox is predominantly white with clean, modern lines and includes a label on the front that reads "WEDDING POST," adding a charming thematic touch that plays off traditional mail systems. Overall, the seating chart setup is not just functional but also a significant decorative feature of the wedding, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and a flair for blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

By boldly applying a riot of colors, we courageously challenged traditional color aesthetics in this wedding. These fiery colors carry intense emotions, infusing every detail of the venue with the sentiments of love. In this special wedding, we skillfully used high-saturation shades of coral and sunset orange, blending them with fresh greens. At the same time, we incorporated light blue, bright pink, light peach, purple, and bright yellow, creating a vibrant and colorful scene that immersed everyone in an atmosphere full of joy and vitality.

Proposal Story

Weikun and I first crossed paths in 2013 on the expansive lawn at Carnegie Mellon University, where we were both new graduate students. I was lounging on the sun-drenched grass while he stood nearby, his presence both radiant and striking. Although we exchanged only a few words that day, there was an undeniable mutual impression that resonated deeply with us. That brief, initial encounter planted a seed of possibility in our hearts, hinting at the start of something new. A year after we first met, the seed of our connection started to bloom during a spontaneous night out at a German bar with friends. That fun-filled evening was the beginning of our journey together. As we navigated our master's and PhD programs at Carnegie Mellon, we grew not just as partners, but as best friends, sharing countless snowy nights in Pittsburgh, lively parties at friends' houses, and the breathtaking scenery of our travels. Throughout the cold winters, Weikun was my sunshine, bringing warmth and light into the chilliest of days. When the pandemic hit, our relationship only grew stronger as we began living together in a cozy apartment. Sharing everyday life didn't strain us; it actually brought us closer together. One spontaneous night, on a whim, we decided to drive six hours just to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. We ended up at a hotel on the New Jersey coast, and as dawn broke and the first light spilled onto our balcony, Weikun surprised me with a proposal. The size of the ring wasn't a perfect fit, but it was wonderfully imperfect, just like that unforgettable moment. To celebrate our engagement, we embarked on a nostalgic photo tour around Pittsburgh, visiting the cherished places that had become significant in our lives. Viewing these familiar spots through our camera lens, we saw them in a refreshed and new light. The photos we captured did more than just freeze moments in time; they encapsulated the growth and depth of our relationship, all set against the backdrop of the city that had witnessed our entire journey together.

Getting Ready

Bridal Portraits

Flat Lays

First Look

The Fashion

Wedding Gown

When we began planning our wedding, the first thing I did was try on a Vera Wang gown. I remember the excitement I felt a decade ago when Vera Wang first opened a store in Shanghai, the city where I grew up. Back then, I was still a college student and wandered into the store with a friend. As we browsed, I imagined myself in a Vera Wang dress on my wedding day. It felt like a childhood dream was coming to life. Initially, I was captivated by a white bridal gown for the ceremony. I've always loved dresses with grand, strapless skirts. It came down to choosing between the "Liesel" and the "Katherine" designs. But after trying on the red "Katherine," which seemed just perfect for the first dance and the reception, I was instantly sold. Thus, the "Liesel" became my pick for the ceremony dress. Later, I explored other designers like Pronovias, Galia Lahav, Monique Lhuillier, and Zuhair Murad, but perhaps it was a touch of childhood nostalgia, or perhaps the red "Katherine" was just too memorable to forget. In the end, I settled on Vera Wang's elegant white "Liesel" and the striking red "Katherine." When the dresses were finally tailored and I tried on the "Katherine" once more, it still felt like it was meant for me—like it had my name written all over it. In addition to the formal gowns, I chose a white embroidered robe for getting ready in the morning and enjoying some cherished moments with my bridesmaids. For the traditional Chinese tea ceremony at noon, which symbolizes the union of Weikun's family and mine in China, I selected a traditional red Chinese bridal outfit to complement Weikun's groom attire. Finally, for the lively afterparty and sparkling celebration, I opted for a vibrant, slim-fit floral green dress, which turned out to be my second favorite after the red Katherine. It looked especially brilliant in the photos taken by C&C at the celebration.

Wedding Party

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

The Details

Florals & Decor

The bridal bouquet is an enchanting composition of soft pastel colors, creating a dreamy and romantic aesthetic. It features a mix of peach, soft pink, lavender, and cream flowers, beautifully intermingled with subtle greenery. The bouquet includes roses, peonies, and possibly delicate sprigs of wildflowers, which contribute to its lush, textured appearance. An orange ribbon is gracefully tied around the bouquet, adding a pop of vibrant color that contrasts yet complements the softer hues of the flowers. The arrangement is loosely tied, giving it an organic, free-flowing look that feels natural and effortless. This style of bouquet not only highlights the bride's elegance but also perfectly suits the tropical backdrop, blending seamlessly with the lush greenery around them. Ceremony – The floral arrangement in the wedding ceremony is a breathtaking display of vibrant and eclectic design. The scene features arches adorned with an abundance of flowers in a spectrum of colors, from warm tones of coral and sunset orange to cool shades of blues and purples. The flowers are interspersed with lush greenery, adding a natural and fresh contrast to the vivid colors. Foregrounding the composition are striking, oversized tropical leaves and palm fronds which were creatively designed to resemble the shape of a "Kun fish", providing a unique and artistic touch to the wedding scene. Two "Kun fish" were painted in shades of coral and orange, providing a bold, modern twist to the arrangement. These elements are artistically placed, creating a dynamic and flowing aesthetic that draws the eye and adds dramatic flair. The arrangement as a whole is set against a backdrop of a scenic outdoor location, with the ocean and sky in the distance, enhancing the colors and vibrancy of the flowers. The design not only complements the natural beauty of the setting but also infuses the ceremony with a joyful and energetic atmosphere, perfect for a celebration of love. Reception – In the reception, the floral design adds a graceful and romantic ambiance to the elegantly set dining room, featuring a sophisticated and elegant style. The centerpiece is composed of a variety of flowers in warm shades of coral, orange, and peach, interspersed with cooler tones of light blue and purple. These are complemented by pops of white and green, which add a fresh and vibrant touch to the composition. The overall aesthetic is one of understated luxury, with the floral centerpiece acting as a focal point that ties together the elements of the table setting, including intricately designed plates, elegant glassware, and complementary table linens. The entire setup suggests a celebration of delicate beauty and refined taste, making it ideal for a special occasion.

Wedding Cake

The decoration of the cake table is a magnificent display of elegance and opulence, beautifully integrated into the overall wedding theme. The table itself is adorned with an array of floral arrangements in vibrant and pastel colors that provide a lush, botanical feel. The flowers range from deep reds and pinks to soft peaches and whites, interspersed with hints of blue and purple, creating a rich tapestry of colors that both highlight and contrast with the cake. The cake is a multi-tiered masterpiece, elegantly simple with its pristine white base accented with subtle patterns and motifs that echo the colors and textures seen in the surrounding decor. The cake's design is understated yet sophisticated, allowing it to stand out without overpowering the stunning floral backdrop that cascades behind it, which includes blooms in similar hues that add a vertical dimension to the presentation. Around the cake, the table features various desserts and sweets on tiered stands and glass platters, adding to the feast for the eyes. This arrangement is not only functional but also contributes to the grandeur of the setting, with each item carefully placed to create visual harmony. The entire setup is illuminated by natural light from large windows, with elegant lighting fixtures adding a warm glow, ensuring that the colors and details of the table are beautifully highlighted. The crystal chandelier placed on the floor by the cake table resembles a pearl in the sea, beautifully complementing the natural light coming from the windows, creating an exceptionally aesthetic scene. This setting is a perfect blend of nature-inspired elements and classic elegance, making it a focal point of the celebration.

Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs

From my perspective, one of the most indelible moments occurred when Weikun delivered his wedding vows. I have long admired his eloquence, and as he artfully articulated his thoughts into vows, I was profoundly moved by the power of language. His words resonated deeply: "IIn the past, we used to believe that any conflict was the antithesis of love, but over time, we learned to be more tolerant and trust each other. This is the vitality of our love." Since that day, these words have lingered in my mind, leaving an enduring impression. From the day we first met on campus to that poignant moment, spanning a decade, my youthful aspirations for marriage and love seemed to crystallize before my eyes. Another indelible moment transpired during the sparkling celebration when we strolled hand in hand across the bridge illuminated by cascading sparkling. Since childhood, I harbored a deep-seated affection for fireworks, convinced that the most exquisite treasures in life are those that etch themselves into the recesses of your heart, enduring the passage of time. Though fireworks may be fleeting, the breathtaking beauty they evoke can possesses a timeless quality within the soul. Therefore, having such a celebrate at the culmination of our wedding was a dream realized. On that day, during the sparkling celebration, I was already feeling a bit intoxicated, yet surrounded by our dearest friends and family, we stepped into a new chapter of life together. In the soft glow of dimmed lights, beneath a canopy of twinkling stars in the sky, holding Weikun's hand, it was a moment that was fleeting yet eternal, simple yet deeply heartwarming.

Special Detail #1

First of all, C&C is absolutely the vendor I have to recommend to all my friends for any kind of celebration, whether it's an engagement, wedding, or any festive event. In fact, C&C later became the photographer for my bridesmaid's wedding photos as well. I fell in love with C&C’s work the moment I first saw their photographs on social media. I was particularly struck by the vibrant vitality, sheer joy, and rich storytelling evident in their images. On our wedding day, they beautifully captured the unique personalities of both Weikun and me, as well as all the guests, showcasing the overall blissful atmosphere of the celebration. They truly elevated my wedding to a level of perfection that we'll cherish forever. I would definitely choose C&C again for future anniversary photos. After deciding on C&C as our wedding photographers, I chose my wedding planner, Manna, and my makeup artist, Bingbing, based on their stellar recommendations. Bingbing, my makeup artist, was truly remarkable, crafting distinct hair and makeup styles for each of my outfits throughout the day. Each look not only matched but also enhanced the corresponding outfit, bringing out a unique beauty that tied the whole look together. My favorite styles were the ones she created for the Chinese ceremony and the first dance in the stunning Katherine gown.

Special Detail #2

Manna turned out to be an exceptionally talented planner. Our wedding day was packed from start to finish, beginning with the morning robe preparations, moving on to the traditional Chinese tea ceremony, then to the afternoon photoshoot, the ceremony, followed by the evening banquet, and finally the after-party and sparkling celebration. Manna’s meticulous planning and coordination ensured the day proceeded smoothly, with every detail unfolding just as I had imagined. Additionally, Manna's design and aesthetic vision for the wedding perfectly matched my expectations and vision, contributing significantly to the day’s success. Working with Manna, the designer Sissi created our wedding logo, invitations, menus, and various paper items, all of which were fantastic. Every guest who received an invitation and wedding gifts praised the beautiful logo.

Special Detail #3

Following Manna's recommendation, I chose a fantastic floral team, Native Poppy. I later discovered that one of my favorite flower truck decoration in San Diego was actually decorated by their team. During our discussions, I shared a very special idea I hoped to bring to life at the wedding. It involved incorporating elements from our Chinese names — “茜 Qian” from my name which means little grass, and “鲲 Kun” from Weikun's name, which refers to a mythical giant fish that could fly — as well as the seaside atmosphere of our venue. It was a distinctly Chinese-inspired concept, and initially, I was worried that it might be challenging for them to capture the essence of such a culturally rich idea. However, on the wedding day, I was absolutely stunned to see the representation of the “Kun” crafted from hay. They had not only realized but exceeded my expectations for sure. The craftsmanship was so remarkable that after the wedding, we even considered placing this hay sculpture in our backyard. Aside from the perfect outdoor setup for the ceremony, the floral decorations at the reception were equally stunning. The arrangements throughout the room beautifully complemented the vibrant array of colors, adding to the festive and elegant ambiance of our special day.

Couple Portraits